The Gospel reading for Matins this Sunday answers the question "Am I Called?" When you have understood this, you know what to do next. So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I … [Read more...]
On the Priesthood, Book 2 – On the Qualities of a Good Pastor (St. John Chrysostom)
Treatise on the Priesthood, by St. John Chrysostom(source: www.ccel.org/fathers) Book II. On the Qualities of a Good Pastor. 1. Chrysostom: That it is possible then to make use of deceit for a good purpose, or rather that in such a case it ought not to be called deceit, but a kind of good … [Read more...]
Don’t let the “modern project” motivate your calling to the priesthood (or anything else)
This article is part of Fr. Stephen Freeman's series on "The Modern Project." While I recommend all of the articles in the series, this one has special relevance for those who feel called to the priesthood. Why? Because I have met men who want to become priests so badly that they cannot imagine … [Read more...]
Something to understand about the priesthood…
Abbot Tryphon says at the end of his essay;"I'm sharing all of this with you because I know your priest will not." He's right; I'm reluctant to post it myself. I've never countenanced whining, especially when it seems to cheapen the "One thing Needful." But it's a good essay and worth sharing for … [Read more...]
An Introduction to Vocations: Every soldier is a rifleman…
An Introduction to Vocations, Part One;Every soldier is a rifleman; every clergyman is a Christianby Fr. Anthony PerkinsI have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me … [Read more...]
What Does Vocation To The Priesthood Mean?
While not an authoritative source for such information, it is worth noting that even Answers.com can have something useful to say about it. Answer: To have a vocation is to have a specific "calling" or disposition towards the religious life. This means that God has granted the soul the grace … [Read more...]
Do You Have What It Takes To Be A Priest?
Do you spend time in prayer? Are you willing and able to grow in your prayer life? Can you dedicate yourself to learn what it takes to be a priest, both in seminary studies and lifelong learning? Would presiding and preaching at the Eucharist motivate you to do it well? Are you committed to grow … [Read more...]